Drivers are being urgently told to protect themselves against so-called ‘Corsa Cannibals’.

The brazen thieves are targeting motorists - and you can protect your Vauxhall motor, apparently, by adapting the way you park.

According to reports, thieves are stripping bonnets, grilles and lights.

The incidents have been reported across the UK - from Bedfordshire to the North East.

Now, it is thought the craze could sweep the West Midlands.

(Image: PA)

The phenomenon began in 2013 and it is believed skilled thieves are able to remove valuable parts from the front of Corsas without causing any damage.

Vauxhall claims its hatchbacks have been targeted because of their popularity, especially with younger drivers who are more likely to be involved in crashes, which often cause damage to the front end of their vehicle.

And today a police officer has urged Corsa drivers to think about security, and if possible park the front end of their car in a way that would make it inaccessible to thieves.

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Acting Inspector Mel Sutherland said: “I would always advise people to check and check again that their vehicle is locked and secure, however given that this type of crime is very specific and unusual I would also encourage people to be extra vigilant and to consider where they are parking their cars.

"If you have a garage then try and use it or park your car as close to the garage door as possible to prevent thieves getting to the front end of the vehicle to remove it.

“You might want to consider upgrading the security on your drive or parking space, investing in a security light or CCTV system needn’t cost the Earth and will be cheaper than replacing the whole front end of your car or seeing an increase in insurance premiums.”

In under two years more than 500 vehicles were targeted in Bedfordshire, with thieves taking body parts in varying quantities.

In some instances only the bumper and the number plate was stolen, whereas in others the cars were stripped right down to the chassis.

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Vauxhall teamed-up with Bedfordshire Police after the launch of ‘Operation King’ which targeted the ‘Corsa Cannibals’.

The car giant supplied the force with Corsas straight from its Luton plant, which were fitted with surveillance technology.

Vauxhall has also urged drivers to mark their vehicle and make sure they only buy approved parts.

The spokesman added: “No-one wants to see their vehicle stripped of its parts with no hope left other than spending a fortune on fixing it, and maybe, with the parts that were originally stolen from you.”